Kristi Saare Duarte’s motto is simple – “Life is for living.” Not just working. Not struggling. Not sitting on your butt and watching soap operas with canned laughter on TV.

Her parents’ sudden passing taught her to live each day as if it were the last. Get out there and explore. Taste that deep fried cricket—maybe it’s good (it was!). Hang on to your seat in that steaming hot, rusty African bus for eighteen hours, because meeting those women with ceramic plates in their lips will be amazing. Be brave. Take Risks. Live.

The idea to write a book about the real Jesus haunted her for years. No, not the sad figure promulgated by the church, but the enlightened teacher. Because, surely, if the man was of God, he would be wise, humble, compassionate— and inclusive?

When she came across the story of Jesus in India, the seeds took root and flourished into THE TRANSMIGRANT.

When not writing, Kristi likes to read (a lot!), explore new foods, new music and dance to her own, unique tune of life.

Coffee of choice: Black and strong

Drink: Single malt scotch, neat

Music: Bombino, David Bowie

Kristi is a member of the Women’s National Book Association and the Historical Novel Society.